Business ideas for a Post-COVID World
The Coronavirus crisis is an opportunity for companies to reinvent themselves and is expected to spur the creation of several new business ideas aiming to cater to radically changing consumer wants and needs.
We’ve already seen early signs of a shift in consumer behaviour, including what they’re buying and how they’re buying it. While some of these changes are direct, short-term responses to the crisis, many of these behaviour shifts will persist, shaping the business environment for years to come.
Businesses that stay human and customer-focused, while applying digital solutions to solve problems, are expected to set themselves apart in the post-Covid world. We outline 7 businesses that are well-placed to succeed in a post-COVID world.
Deep Cleaning Company
Hand sanitizers, disinfectant wipes, hand & hand sanitizing stations in public places, are here to stay. Good hygiene practices have become such an intrinsic part of our day-to-day lives, that it’s highly unlikely consumers will revert to their pre-COVID behaviour. In fact, this hygiene-focused behaviour is expected to persist long after the crisis is over as consumers seek to protect themselves from germs and bacteria. The services of deep cleaners who sanitize offices, retail outlets is a solid business idea.
Delivery Service
On-demand delivery services are among the unsung heroes of the Coronavirus crisis. They’ve ensured people receive essential supplies from medicine to groceries and food. The crisis has reframed consumer demand. With consumer appetite for convenience and comfort likely to persist, on-demand delivery services are here to stay.
Butchers, bakers & candlestick makers
Consumers will change their preferences in support of smaller, independent businesses. This is because crowd control and queues are easier to manage. We’ve also seen that in times of crisis, the most stable business is your dependable butcher, baker, fruit shop and delis. And, with a greater awareness around hygiene and cleanliness, consumers want greater transparency around where their food comes from, as well as how it is grown and made.
Protective Gear
A few months ago, masks weren’t exactly high on anyone’s agendas. But, fast forward a few months, they’re now a part of everyday life. They’ve become the must-have accessory for citizens across the globe. Public spaces, travel and gatherings will likely require mask-wearing for the foreseeable future. Interestingly, the mask has become a way for people to express themselves. It has quickly morphed into a must-have fashion accessory with styles available for every taste and budget.
Digital & e-Services
The pandemic has forced businesses across the world to accelerate their shift to digital, and changes in consumer behaviour that many expected to take years is instead happening in the space of a few months. The crisis has encouraged consumers to embrace a more digitized existence, relying on the internet for everything needed to conduct their lives from essential items like groceries and medication, holding meetings and events, to education. It has also forced many new customer segments to adopt eCommerce. Brick and mortar stores might remain a popular choice for many. However, after experiencing the convenience of online shopping, a significant demographic has been pushed over the learning threshold.
Health & Wellness
Consumers will shift their focus to the importance of preventive healthcare, immunity-boosting and wellness foods. Business offering highly-nutritional food or personal fitness equipment will do well while people regain their trust in public gyms.
Cybersecurity
An increasing dependency on digital tools means that our data is more susceptible to hacking than ever before. Businesses moving online will want to ensure user safety, meaning the industry is likely to remain a high priority in the post-COVID environment.
Read more about how South African businesses are pivoting their offerings to keep up with a “new normal”
